motif

noun

mō-ˈtēf How to pronounce motif (audio)
Definition of motifnext
1
as in theme
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition) the motif of mute figures standing in lonely isolation is a recurrent one in the artist's works

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in pattern
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) the fabric for the upholstery features a scallop shell motif

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of motif Larger artifacts on the site include weapons in the burials, horse gear and animal-style motifs. — ABC News, 5 Nov. 2026 This year looks especially optimistic for the wardrobe essential, as people are preferring whimsical motifs, colors, and cuts over a simple crewneck or cardigan. — Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 5 Nov. 2026 The motif is often combined with trending looks like cat-eye nails and French manicures. — Christina Middleton, Allure, 4 Nov. 2026 Starbucks will also unveil its holiday cup designs, with trees, bows and other seasonal motifs. — Erin Clements, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
  1. theme
  2. pattern
  3. topic
  4. design
  5. matter
  6. question
Noun
  • This androgynous, liminal realm is the soil from which all of Great Jobs’s tracks blossom, variations on a theme that’s equal parts introspective and exploratory.
    — Lisle Younger, Pitchfork, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Now, meet the brand’s mask, which takes a three-pronged approach to hydration using high-tech ingredients with another marine theme.
    — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of theme
Noun
  • According to the news release, the catalog documents births, injuries, migration patterns, and ages.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2026
  • Katherine Hosie, an executive leadership coach who works with senior leaders under sustained pressure, describes a similar pattern through a metaphor from Aldous Huxley's The Doors of Perception.
    — Sonal Nain, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2026
Definition of pattern
Noun
  • This year’s conference is expected to focus on implementing existing climate commitments, reducing emissions and accelerating the clean energy transition, among other topics.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Cavan Images/Alamy There was a land of Usenet forums and AOL keywords, LiveJournals and Blogspots and single-topic Tumblrs.
    — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 5 Nov. 2026
Definition of topic
Noun
  • That timeline reflects a development process built around rapid design iterations and in-house manufacturing capabilities.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Also new are the 17- to 19-in alloy wheel designs and the power-latching sliding doors and tailgate.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of design
Noun
  • Citizens who had identification issues have until Tuesday to address those matters in person at their local elections office.
    — BILL BARROW, Arkansas Online, 8 Nov. 2026
  • Each bed also includes a lifetime warranty, so feel free to shift your focus to more pressing matters, like how to style your Thanksgiving tablescape.
    — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of matter
Noun
  • Last April, a lead national security prosecutor in the investigation of former CIA Director John Brennan was replaced on the team after raising questions about the strength of the case.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 Nov. 2026
  • The mission’s classified status leaves several technical questions unanswered.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of question

Browse Nearby Words

mother wit
motif
motifs
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Cite this Entry

“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 12 Nov. 2026.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about motif

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